Oil level

[Chops]

G’day guys, driving the car the other day, Leeanne had a msg come up that said I think 🤔 low oil. Orange warning ⚠️ light came up on the dash. She pulled over immediately and switched the car off, and rang me. [biggrin]
Being literally 2 minutes up the road, I told her to drive it home. I’m fairly vigilant with watching for smoke etc whilst driving, and there’s definitely no oil on the driveway.
I checked the oil level, all good. Full to the brim even, according to the electronic gauge.

Coming back from town last night, my turn on the wheel, same deal,,,

So, it’s quite warm up here in the Albury Wodonga region at the moment, but, this also sort of coinsides with the Airbag warning ⚠️ light coming on intermittently whilst up here too. I still haven’t been able to catch that one to check yet it either.
The cars being organised to be serviced by Greg down in Melb in about two weeks if all works well,,, but in the meantime, anyone got any ideas.

TIA cheers guys.

[grey_ghost]

Yeah - give it to me and buy a new one. [emoji6]

[scarry]

No dipstick[bigsad][bigsad]

If the sender in the sump needs changing hopefully it’s under warranty,as it’s a major job[bigsad]

[DiscoJeffster]

You wouldn’t be the first to have had the sump oil level sensor play up, though it’s relatively rare.

[Hugh Jars]

Gidday Chops,

I was getting the red caption with an urgent message like ‘oil dangerously low, refill immediately’ or similar.

I shut it down for a few minutes and checked the level. Indicator says almost full.

It happened a few times, and eventually went back under warranty for a body off replacement of the sensor. LR didn’t tell me whether they replaced the harness (it was dependent on whether the sensor leaked oil into the harness or not). What they did say was the oil level was almost full when they did the job. That was reassuring [emoji4]
MY 16.5 SDV6

Good luck!

[matti4556]

Body Off to replace a sensor!? Great design that one. What's that doing for our GDP [tonguewink]
Are there any analogue sensor kits (dipstick) that can be retrofitted to these engines? Sounds like a business opportunity to me.
Matti

[discomatt69]

Its not a body off job but the front diff does need to come out is my understanding of it from all the research I did before buying the D4.

Why o why can't it just have a ****ing dip stick !!!!????

[trout1105]

Its not a body off job but the front diff does need to come out is my understanding of it from all the research I did before buying the D4.

Why o why can't it just have a ****ing dip stick !!!!????

Its because Landrovers target market doesn't like to get that dirty oil on their manicured fingers and most of them wouldn't know where to find a dipstick anyway so why bother fitting one in the first place[bigwhistle]
My 2012 Navara has an oil sensor that displays the level on startup But it also has a dipstick, Why couldn't Landrover do the same with a much more costly 2012 vehicle?

[PhilipA]

Haven't they got an oil "suck up" tube ?
Surely someone could come up with a dipstick that goes down the "suck up" tube.

Regards Philip A

[trout1105]

Haven't they got an oil "suck up" tube ?
Surely someone could come up with a dipstick that goes down the "suck up" tube.

Regards Philip A

I am pretty sure that's how it works on my 115hp Suzuki outboard[thumbsupbig]

[justinc]

Haven't they got an oil "suck up" tube ?
Surely someone could come up with a dipstick that goes down the "suck up" tube.

Regards Philip A

Exactly , I'm currently looking into it. I am certain it is easy to implement, although if the sensor goes to lunch the Christmas tree dash and constant beeping would be horrific

[DiscoJeffster]

Exactly , I'm currently looking into it. I am certain it is easy to implement, although if the sensor goes to lunch the Christmas tree dash and constant beeping would be horrific

Brake cable is likely the most suitable option to channel its way down. Remember oil can come up a convoluted tube but a thin bit of steel will have trouble following the bends. Maybe a multi strand wire such as brake cable will make its way down.

[Hugh Jars]

Its not a body off job but the front diff does need to come out is my understanding of it from all the research I did before buying the D4.

That’s what I was told by the tech, and I have no reason to disbelieve him. Perhaps that was to facilitate wiring harness replacement, should it be required. It was an “and/or” regarding the diff removal (from what I remember).

The job was done well, and I’ve had no problems with it since [emoji854]

[101RRS]

My 2012 Navara has an oil sensor that displays the level on startup But it also has a dipstick, Why couldn't Landrover do the same with a much more costly 2012 vehicle?

My 1977 Lancia Beta had a oil level gauge as well as a dipstick - the dipstick was hollow and was the sensor for the gauge.

So yes - why do we have to put up with these design brain farts in 2019.

[scarry]

Both the Hi Ace and Mitsy vans have a dipstick,oil pressure,and oil level lights.

Its not just LR,many European vehicles don't have dipsticks anymore.

Definitely a dumb idea.Seems like technology for technologys sake,with no real benefit,which LR and other European vehicle manufacturers are experts at.

[rick130]

Paul, I'm thinking that doing away with the dipstick is a way to reduce potential contamination of the oil.

Most people don't lift the bonnet anyway.
Ever.

[PhilipA]

What?
You reckon the locals have a long enough pizzle to pee down the tube?
That is why I was told to always lock my water tank filler cap.

Regards Philip A

[trout1105]

Paul, I'm thinking that doing away with the dipstick is a way to reduce potential contamination of the oil.

Most people don't lift the bonnet anyway.
Ever.

Nothing whatsoever to do with oil contamination, More to do with lazy useless numb nuts that like you said don't Ever bother to lift the bonnet.
It does however become an issue when an owner does want to physically check the oil level and not simply rely on a digital readout.

[PerthDisco]

Brake cable is likely the most suitable option to channel its way down. Remember oil can come up a convoluted tube but a thin bit of steel will have trouble following the bends. Maybe a multi strand wire such as brake cable will make its way down.

The TDV6 2.7D has a dipstick like this.

[ATH]

If Justin or any of the other LR indies do come up with something we can use to check the oil without having to wait for a bloody warning light, I amongst the many others will be deeply grateful.
What a stupid nut job idea to have just an electronic read out!
I know mine (5/2016 build) doesn't use oil between changes but I'd really love to be able for peace of my troubled mind be able to check it's level, sniff it and feel it.
Oh dear, that sounds a bit like I've given up girls.......
Cheers.
AlanH.

[goingbush]

Paul, I'm thinking that doing away with the dipstick is a way to reduce potential contamination of the oil.

Most people don't lift the bonnet anyway.
Ever.


We bought a new Renault Captur for my wife a few years ago. I've made a point of keeping my fingers away while its under warranty. Its now done 13,000km and the bonnet has never been opened by me. Ive have not even had to refill the washer fluid . Its coming up for its 2nd annual service (at the Dealer) in a few weeks . I just found the bonnet release (duh its on the passenger side) , Wow it still looks brand new & yes it has a dipstick , & the oil is a nice honey brown an on the full mark. Best car ever owned so far, have never touched a thing on it - I assume 99% of owners are the same. Looking at it theres probably not a damn thing I could do on it anyway. I suppose I should check the tyres , even though thats covered by an indicator on the dash. Not bad for under 30K.

[slug_burner]

People appear to manage without dipsticks on their automatic transmissions! I think that the dipstick is a potential contamination source. Dirt gathers around the mouth of the tube and could find it’s way into the tube as we try and put the dipstick back.

How many people use the dipstick on a daily or weekly basis. Most are no different to the target market which does not like to get their hands dirty.

[trout1105]

People appear to manage without dipsticks on their automatic transmissions! I think that the dipstick is a potential contamination source. Dirt gathers around the mouth of the tube and could find it’s way into the tube as we try and put the dipstick back.

How many people use the dipstick on a daily or weekly basis. Most are no different to the target market which does not like to get their hands dirty.


I have taught all my kids and grandkids to check the oil and coolant on a regular basis and they do this.
Not having a dipstick is a stupid idea because how the hell are you supposed to tell if your oil is contaminated or has lost its viscosity by just having an oil level readout on the dash.

With the ridicules long service intervals now it is important to be able to keep an eye on your oil between services and Not having a dipstick makes this impossible.

[Geedublya]

They are probably getting rid of dipsticks as there is potential for fumes to escape from the engine into the environment through the tube instead of being burnt. If you look closely it will be an EC requirement I'm guessing.

[INter674]

Just another reason to stay away from these cars after the warranty runs out...good as they may be...it would drive me nuts not having a dip stick. ..not to mention the other issues arise 😐

[goingbush]

They are probably getting rid of dipsticks as there is potential for fumes to escape from the engine into the environment through the tube instead of being burnt. If you look closely it will be an EC requirement I'm guessing.

Dont think so, My EU5 Iveco has a dipstick , as do the newer EU6 Iveco . Mine has the oil level lights on the dash & loom plug but no oil level sensor on the Engine.

[letherm]

Ive have not even had to refill the washer fluid.

And no doubt they charge you for filling it up. LR certainly do.

Martin

[goingbush]

And no doubt they charge you for filling it up. LR certainly do.

Martin

Never checked the receipt itemisation, Services at the local BMW dealer , who is also the Renault agent are $270 . I would not bother getting my hands dirty for that, and it gives us an outing in Shepparton .

[rangieman]

Really dipstick`s can increase the chance of contamination and can expel fumes :Rolling:
Really in over 100 years of the internal combustion engine how many people have become ill because of dip stick fumes[bighmmm] Same goes for contamination

Stop making lame excuses for LR incompetence in engineering :bangin:

[justinc]

I am only finding it irritating having to wait 20mins from hot to test it, but in all reality most people check oil in the mornings, or left for a while. I have no issue with my dash gauge in that respect. I change mine at 10,000km so no problem with long changes IMO. For MOST of us, the lack of a dipstick doesn't really pose a risk, it's just something to get used to.

[Homestar]

People appear to manage without dipsticks on their automatic transmissions! I think that the dipstick is a potential contamination source. Dirt gathers around the mouth of the tube and could find it’s way into the tube as we try and put the dipstick back.

How many people use the dipstick on a daily or weekly basis. Most are no different to the target market which does not like to get their hands dirty.

Dipsticks are there for the service agents too, not just the owner.

[4bee]

Really in over 100 years of the internal combustion engine how many people have become ill because of dip stick fumes[bighmmm] Same goes for contamination


Only those who love the pong of the infernal Combustion engine & have a long tube going from the dipstick tube back to the steering wheel & terminating in a face mask & sniff on it ad nauseum. Some folk prefer glue or petrol, while others prefer engine fumes. Simples, what's not to understand?[wink11][biggrin]

[DiscoJeffster]

I am only finding it irritating having to wait 20mins from hot to test it, but in all reality most people check oil in the mornings, or left for a while. I have no issue with my dash gauge in that respect. I change mine at 10,000km so no problem with long changes IMO. For MOST of us, the lack of a dipstick doesn't really pose a risk, it's just something to get used to.

Why not just open the bonnet and press the cruise button twice, as per the service manual to read it as and when you want, designed for service agents? Sure it might be 20ml inaccurate as it might not all have settled, but close enough surely.

[Eric SDV6SE]

Why not just open the bonnet and press the cruise button twice, as per the service manual to read it as and when you want, designed for service agents? Sure it might be 20ml inaccurate as it might not all have settled, but close enough surely.

Did a 10,000 km oil service today, used the e-dipstick to check I had filled to the right level. Ignition on, in service menu with oil level showing, topped off with oil until at max level. All good.

[DiscoJeffster]

All this talk of dipsticks. I try to read my mum’s Golf dipstick. One side remains dry. The other unable to read. Every time you try it drags oil up the tube. Every reinsert grabs said oil and coats stick. This thing uses about a litre every 2000km so it’s a regular occurrence and according to VW and the manual, within tolerance. Thank god it has electronic wizardry to tell her it’s low on oil else it would be dead long ago. I WISH it had an electronic level indicator not it’s useless stick. Not all sticks are made equal.

[101RRS]

There is nothing wrong with not having a dipstick and having a readout to tell you the level - however that system has to be reliable which clearly the LR system is not - the original post was about a low level indication when it was fine - what would have happened it that indication was acted upon and more oil added - some sort of damage would have been expected - would LR honour a relevant claim - unless the system is reliable, which it is clearly not, then secondary system is needed.

Garry

[trout1105]

There is nothing wrong with not having a dipstick and having a readout to tell you the level - however that system has to be reliable which clearly the LR system is not - the original post was about a low level indication when it was fine - what would have happened it that indication was acted upon and more oil added - some sort of damage would have been expected - would LR honour a relevant claim - unless the system is reliable, which it is clearly not, then secondary system is needed.

Garry

My 2012 Navara has a digital readout that tells you the oil level on startup, It also has a dipstick which is what I prefer to use to check the oil.
Seriously how bloody hard is it to lift the bonnet to check the oil/coolant and have a quick squizz in the engine bay to see if all is well.
This is a landrover site which means a 4WD site and most of us actually engage the center diff or 4WD and use our Landrovers as they were designed for, Checking the fluid levels and the rest of the truck out every day when off the beaten track is what you do so that there are NO stuff ups in the middle of nowhere.
I suppose those of us who never go off road in their Toorack Taxies and wouldn't know how to check the oil etc. are quite happy to rely on the idiot lights and the digital oil readout to warn them of an impending disaster, Not this little black duck I like to KNOW and see what is going on in the engine bay.

[DiscoJeffster]

There is nothing wrong with not having a dipstick and having a readout to tell you the level - however that system has to be reliable which clearly the LR system is not - the original post was about a low level indication when it was fine - what would have happened it that indication was acted upon and more oil added - some sort of damage would have been expected - would LR honour a relevant claim - unless the system is reliable, which it is clearly not, then secondary system is needed.

Garry

Really? The oil level sensor issue is far less common than suspension arms, air compressors, even crank issues! It’s hardly what I’d call unreliable, but admittedly it’s something you’d prefer zero failures with. I agree the problem is you have no choice but to restart your journey on a flat bed as you have no way of verifying the failed sensor if that happens, which is unacceptable for a true off road vehicle. That I agree with.

[101RRS]

It has been raised on this forum a number of times - and indeed is the subject of this thread. Raised on forums all around the world. Is an issue that is more common than you think.

garry

[trout1105]

Having No dipstick is just Tech for Tech's sake, With the cost of a new truck these days the cost of fitting a dipstick is minimal so why not have it fitted to the engine just in case the owner wants to have the option of checking his/her oil manually?

[4bee]

Of course their reply to that trout, would be .... "Hang on, yours is only one, so what about all the 20million we would have to fit on the production line?" (20 million may be a slight exaggeration but you get the idea)[smilebigeye]


Bean Counters! Should be shot.

[trout1105]

Of course their reply to that trout, would be .... "Hang on, yours is only one, so what about all the 20million we would have to fit on the production line?" (20 million may be a slight exaggeration but you get the idea)[smilebigeye]


Bean Counters! Should be shot.

For a real off roader the lack of a dipstick would most likely be a deal breaker, I know it would be for me personally.
At least the Japs still think a dipstick is mandatory and along with a few other things is why they have a larger market share than Landrover has, Screw the bean counters[thumbsupbig]

[4bee]

[smilebigeye] I'm with you. One wonders whether the ADF had all this junk fitted on the Perenties.

"Hang on Sarge we are about to be overrun but I need to check my oil first. Oh bugger, my oil level sensor ain't working & it is showing Empty. Wish I had a dipstick."[bighmmm]

[weeds]

[smilebigeye] I'm with you. One wonders whether the ADF had all this junk fitted on the Perenties.

"Hang on Sarge we are about to be overrun but I need to check my oil first. Oh bugger, my oil level sensor ain't working & it is showing Empty. Wish I had a dipstick."[bighmmm]

Don’t reckon I would be puking the dipstick if the enemy is in sight.....although I only checked the oil on my 6x6 once a month.

[Discodicky]

I don't have a problem with the electronic oil guage per se; it's just the fact that it is not a "5 min job" to replace it. Why couldn't it be accessed externally like (as I understand; according to my neighbour) an Audi system is. What WERE the L/R engineers thinking! And whilst I am having a bitch about them (Engineers) why does the 2.7 engine have its engine oil drain plug vertical so the oil drops cleanly into the bucket, yet the 3.6 TDV8 and 3.0 V6 have them horizontally on the side so the oil hits the chassis and spews everywhere! I guess they told the apprentice engineer to design that bit and no one checked. (oh cynical me!)

[4bee]

Don’t reckon I would be puking the dipstick if the enemy is in sight.....although I only checked the oil on my 6x6 once a month.


Sorry, I omitted to say they were a slow advancing enemy. ![smilebigeye]

[PhilipA]

I reckon that this would do the trick.

Curtain Wires At Spotlight - Durable Stretch Wires (https://www.spotlightstores.com/curtains-blinds/curtain-accessories/curtain-wires)

Just dip it after it has been serviced and then make that the full mark. I guess you could get a hacksaw and make a small mark on the coil . The oil should stick in the grooves and be easy to read.
That's the theory anyway.

Regards Philip A
I thought if not that an ALDI drain cleaner should work. I use it to pull wires through grommets in the firewall.

[DiscoJeffster]

I reckon that this would do the trick.

Curtain Wires At Spotlight - Durable Stretch Wires (https://www.spotlightstores.com/curtains-blinds/curtain-accessories/curtain-wires)

Just dip it after it has been serviced and then make that the full mark. I guess you could get a hacksaw and make a small mark on the coil . The oil should stick in the grooves and be easy to read.
That's the theory anyway.

Regards Philip A
I thought if not that an ALDI drain cleaner should work. I use it to pull wires through grommets in the firewall.

Brake cable is what you want and is what has been used on other vehicles. It doesn’t stretch, follows tight curves, is thin enough to go down the shaft. I think this will be my goal for tomorrow - make it.